Stock Market History

In many ways, the study of Stock Market History over the past 100 years is a study of America itself. From the seminal Stock Market Crashes and the key Stock Market Record Days, historians can trace the link between the Stock Market and the Economy and perhaps even offer guidance as to what may lay ahead for the markets.

Some of the elements of Stock Market History as they have effected daily lives are clear, such as the infamous Crash of 1929, while others can be seen as reflections of global events. For example, September 17, 2001 saw the Dow hit a record point drop on what was the first day of the markets being open after the tragedies of 9/11.

Maybe the most important element of Stock Market History for today's investor is how understanding the past can aid in making smart investment choices for the future. The recent Tech crash is often referred to as having been caused by a "bubble", with prices rising uncontrollably until the inevitable fall. That so many investors were blinded to this bubble, or perhaps just choose to ignore it in hopes of making money while it lasted and getting out with nice profits, is one of the many risky elements of the Stock Market.

Stock Market History is more though than just a dry exercise in markets and numbers. It is an evolving matter, continually open to interpretation and reinterpretation. No matter if you're the smallest investor or controlling a vast fortune, understanding the Stock Market's History can be of great help in deciding where to put your money in the years ahead.